Fertility Acupuncture
Fertility
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat infertility. Infertility describes the manifestation of an underlying cause rather than the cause itself. Acupuncture can be used to treat certain causes of infertility, though not all of them. For example, acupuncture will not work to address adhesions within fallopian tubes, which can occur as a result of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis. However, in this situation, an individual could still benefit from acupuncture because of the potential effect on improved ovarian and follicular function. Additionally, it is shown that acupuncture can increase blood flow to the endometrium, helping to facilitate a thick, rich lining.
Acupuncture is a natural way of treating infertility, and also improves general health and well-being in readiness for pregnancy.
Acupuncture & IVF
In an article, entitled "Influence of Acupuncture on the Pregnancy Rate in Patients who undergo Assisted Reproduction Therapy" (Fertility and Sterility, 2002) researchers found that they had increased the success rate of women undergoing in vitro fertilization. The study shows that the pregnancy rate for the group receiving acupuncture is considerably higher than for the control group (42.5% versus 26.3%). This research supports the knowledge that receiving acupuncture pre and post embryo transfer during IVF can enhance the chances of pregnancy.
Infertility
Lifestyle and environmental issues can play a large part in decreasing female fertility and there are a number of practical steps you can take to reduce the risk. Please ask for our leaflet on the top ten tips for a healthy pregnancy.
Pre-conceptual treatment - women are leaving it later in life before becoming pregnant and want to enhance their chances of success before the biological clock starts ticking loudly. Acupuncture is increasingly used as a pre-conceptual treatment, even if there are no known medical issues with fertility.
After illness - you have more chance of giving birth to a healthy baby if your body is in good health. Acupuncture supports your body back to balanced health, and in the case of serious treatments for diseases such as cancer, helps to reduce the risk of the toxins which are a side effect of the treatment.
Supporting IVF and IUI - if you are already in a treatment programme, you will know that the treatment can seem onerous. In our experience acupuncture increases the effectiveness of the treatment and at the same time supports your well-being and improves your state of mind. This of course helps you feel more positive during the time you are trying to conceive and during the pregnancy too.
Male fertility problems have a number of origins some of which are very straightforward. I work with both partners and this in itself is an important part of the treatment.
Fertility Treatments
I want you to feel confident at all stages of the treatment and, of course, treat you with courtesy and respect at all times. You have plenty of time to discuss any aspect of the treatment and to ask any questions no matter how small.
Your individual condition is diagnosed by looking at your tongue, feeling your pulses and asking questions. Acupuncture forms a major part of the treatment. Please bring your partner or come on your own - whichever you prefer. You will start by having a one hour consultation to assess your situation and devise a personalized treatment plan. Once this is complete you can start treatment.
Sessions last an hour. A general guideline for length of treatment is that it usually takes three to four months to balance the body back to health, but of course this depends on individual circumstances.
When Should You Seek Acupuncture Treatment?
Clinical observations suggest that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture and Western medical interventions.
You should consider having treatment if any of the following apply to you:
Preparing to conceive
Preparing for IVF/ ICSI i.e. assisted reproduction
Under 35 and been trying to conceive for one year
Over 35 and been trying to conceive for 6 months without success
Periods are irregular, painful or absent
Previous history of miscarriage
Prior use of an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception
Prior use of contraceptive pill and no subsequent return of menstruation
Endometriosis/ painful menstruation
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Heavy periods /PMT
Tiredness /depression/ weepiness
High blood pressure
History of sexually transmitted disease (STD)
History of pelvic inflammation
History of chemotherapy or radiation therapy
